very last minute question

Hi,

I am going to the 5 January class and hope to get some clarification from recent graduates. My first question...should I buy a new recruit duffel bag to put all of the uniforms and stuff into or would the ACU luggage work. I have heard several people say that we have to carry around what we bring and want to carry the least amount of equipment possible. Next question... I have commissioned reserve and set up my ako account. When can I get my ID card? My recruiter says that I have to wait until I get to Ft Sam but my older officer friends tell me that I should have it when I get there. And last but not least... will we be able to fly out during the (2) 4-day weekends that we have? My son leaves for Korea during the first 4-day and I would love to see him off safely from Augusta, GA. Thanks to everyone for the good information on the upcoming events. I'm really starting to get excited!

Hi,

Are you AC or RC? I am a reserve component....just returned from OBLC:

1. My first question...should I buy a new recruit duffel bag to put all of the uniforms and stuff into or would the ACU luggage work. I brought my gear in a huge bag with wheels. I bought a duffle at Ft.Sam to bring back all the gear I ended up buying.... They issue you a duffle with gear to go to the field. (then you return it before you grad.) So, you use the Army's duffle (or yours if you want) when you go to Camp Bullis.

As for backpacks or ANYTHING you carry during class/formations. It must be ALL BLACK or ACU camo. NO labels or writing on it..... you will get busted for carrying anything with a logo.

2. When can I get my ID card? My recruiter says that I have to wait until I get to Ft Sam but my older officer friends tell me that I should have it when I get there. I got my card before I went, from my reserve unit office. They had a CAC administration office, not all units have this (i.e. if your unit is small). It you don't have your card before you go, it is O.K....Fort Sam cac office can issue you one, it takes about 30mins. You will need to bring plenty of ID.

If you want to get dogtags (at the uniform store)....know your blood type.

3.will we be able to fly out during the (2) 4-day weekends that we have? You can fly out on "long weekends" (3 days), but you need to fill out paperwork requesting a pass....it is possible, just ask your class advisor.

And remember, reservist usually have half day classes on Saturdays. Then on the Sunday, you have to bring your gear (17:00) to transfer Camp Bullis---so the 2 day weekends are rather short for long distance traveling. But plenty of people went to Austin, Dallas, etc.....(with a travel pass).

Good luck,

c.